cloudlifter cl-2 mic pre amp

5.0 (2)

$249.00

4.7 (4254)

$249.00 New

$219.00 Used (Like New)

5.0 (5)

$249.00 23 available New

$159.00 13 available Used

5.0 (8)

$249.00

5.0 (5)

$249.00

4.8 (20)

$249.00

4.6 (35)

$218.00 $211.00 $7.00 · All time low

£239.00

5.0 (2)

$249.00

Price History

Based on price data from 8 merchants for "cloudlifter cl-2 mic pre amp". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

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Unlock the full potential of your dynamic and ribbon microphones with the Cloudlifter CL-2 Mic Preamp. Perfectly engineered for studio recording enthusiasts, this dual-channel "mic activator" provides up to +25dB of ultra-clean gain, making it essential for low-output microphones. Whether you're recording in a professional studio or at home, the CL-2 enhances your mic's signal while maintaining its natural tone, thanks to its ultra-transparent JFET circuitry.

Say goodbye to unwanted noise and hello to crystal-clear sound. The Cloudlifter CL-2 leverages phantom power to deliver a noiseless boost, ensuring your microphones perform at their best without altering their unique sound characteristics. Its robust construction features premium components like the Neutrik combo connector, making it both durable and reliable for long-term use. The CL-2 is also designed with practical applications in mind, effortlessly transforming any microphone preamp into a ribbon preamp and protecting your sound over long cable runs.

Whether you're in a bustling studio or a live sound environment, the Cloudlifter CL-2 is your go-to solution for achieving professional-grade sound with ease.

Key Features:

Provides up to +25dB of noise-free amplification
Dual-channel, dual-mono configuration
Utilizes phantom power for operation
Equipped with ultra-transparent JFET circuitry
Enhances signal for long cable runs without added noise
Converts any mic preamp into a ribbon preamp
Durable build with Neutrik combo connectors
Safe for use with all passive microphones
Made in Tucson, Arizona with a focus on quality and sustainability

Product specs

Available since	August 2013
Channels	2
Number of microphone inputs	2
Instrument input	No
Tubes	No
Compressor/Limiter	No
Equalizer	No
De-Esser	No
Phantom power	No
Phase Reverse	No
External effect loops	No
Analogue Outputs	XLR
Digitale Outputs	None
Headphone connection	No
Level Meter	No
Design	Desktop

FAQs

What is the main purpose of the Cloudlifter CL-2?: The Cloudlifter CL-2 is designed to provide a clean gain boost for dynamic and ribbon microphones, enhancing their signal without adding noise, particularly useful when working with low-output mics.
How much gain does the Cloudlifter CL-2 provide?: The Cloudlifter CL-2 provides up to 25 dB of ultra-clean gain, helping improve the performance of microphones by reducing unwanted noise and enhancing signal clarity.
Does the Cloudlifter CL-2 require phantom power to operate?: Yes, the Cloudlifter CL-2 requires phantom power from your mixer or audio interface to function, but it does not pass this power to the microphone, making it safe for ribbon mics.
Can the Cloudlifter CL-2 be used with condenser microphones?: The Cloudlifter CL-2 is primarily designed for dynamic and ribbon microphones. Condenser mics typically do not require the additional gain provided by a Cloudlifter.
How many channels does the Cloudlifter CL-2 support?: The Cloudlifter CL-2 supports two channels, allowing you to boost the signal of two microphones simultaneously, making it ideal for stereo setups or dual-mic applications.

Videos

Add video

BenoniStudio

Cloudlifter Mic Activator - Unleash Your Microphones

BenoniStudio

Cloudlifter CL-1, CL-2, CL-4 Video User Guide

Cloud Microphones

Cloudlifter CL-2 Mic Activator Product Overview

jwpepper1876

Should You BUY A Cloudlifter?? Cloudlifter CL-2

Archie Beatz

Reviews

Add review

PROS

Boosts weak mic signals by ~20dB, significantly improving sound quality
Protects ribbon mics from phantom power, offering peace of mind
Plug and play simplicity; no complex controls
Solid and rugged construction for durability
Clean and transparent signal amplification
Can significantly reduce noise and hiss from preamps
Ideal for use with dynamic and ribbon mics, including low-output mics
Enhances the character and application of microphones
Dual channel allows for stereo recordings or two mics simultaneously
Aesthetic design is clean and classic

CONS

High price point for some users
Lacks adjustable gain options or switchable gain settings
Some units may introduce noise into the circuit
Does not work with condenser microphones

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about cloudlifter cl-2 mic pre amp.

Features and functionality

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The Cloudlifter operates as a 48 volt JFET amplifier, converting phantom power into gain, effectively boosting mic level signals without requiring mains power.
Source
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It's noted that the Cloudlifter provides a fixed gain increase, which is crucial for enhancing low-output dynamic microphones and ribbon mics.
Source
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The device's role as a Mic Activator®, a term trademarked by Cloudlifter, suggests a marketing angle that differentiates it from traditional preamps in consumer perception.
Source
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Cloudlifters are praised for their ability to provide suitable impedance to passive ribbon mics, enhancing their sound quality.
Source
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The Cloudlifter is more effective with certain setups; it may not resolve noise issues with lavalier microphones if the source of the hiss is elsewhere.
Source

Use cases and applications

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The Cloudlifter is often used in setups with dynamic mics that need additional gain to achieve optimal performance, without altering the mic's tonal character.
Source
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Ideal for studio scenarios where long cable runs are used, as it helps maintain a favorable signal-to-noise ratio.
Source
0 0

Using a Cloudlifter CL-2 with lavalier mics can increase hiss if placed after the receiver, as it amplifies all signals, including noise.
Source
0 0

Avoid using Cloudlifters with red dot COS-11 lav mics, as these are attenuated and can further increase noise floor when amplified.
Source

Comparisons

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Some owners compare the Cloudlifter to other inline preamps available on Sweetwater, highlighting it as a popular choice among its 48 volt JFET counterparts.
Source
0 0

The FETHead is noted as a similar product with a nicer form factor and less marketing hype, though it offers slightly less gain.
Source

User experience

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Users emphasize that the Cloudlifter requires an additional preamp for complete functionality, acting as an intermediary rather than a standalone solution.
Source
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Some users find Cloudlifters unnecessary for SM7B mics when using interfaces with adequate gain like Focusrite Scarlett 2i2.
Source

Value and pricing

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Cloudlifters are considered overpriced, with alternatives like the Klark Teknik mic booster offering similar functionality at a lower cost.
Source

Other

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The Cloudlifter was originally designed for use with quiet, passive ribbon mics rather than modern dynamic mics like the SM7B.
Source

Setup and maintenance

0 0

Proper gain staging is crucial; ensure transmitter gain settings are optimal and receiver output isn't too low to avoid excessive noise.
Source

Critic Reviews

Cloud Microphones Cloudlifters

soundonsound.com

The Cloudlifter CL-2 mic preamp is a game-changer for users of passive ribbon and dynamic mics, delivering 20-25 dB of clean gain without frills or controls. It effectively reduces noise issues typical with high-gain settings on audio interfaces, resulting in clearer recordings. While its simplicity may seem limiting, its clean performance and affordability make it an essential tool once experienced. However, the lack of controls might leave some users wanting more flexibility. Overall, it's a must-have for achieving professional sound quality with low-output mics.

positive

Full Review

Cloudlifter CL-2 Review | recording hacks

recordinghacks.com

The Cloudlifter CL-2 is a game-changer for those seeking to breathe new life into low-output mics without the hefty price tag of specialized preamps. Offering a remarkable +25dB of ultra-clean gain, it enhances mic clarity and detail, making it particularly beneficial for ribbon mics. While its placement directly after the microphone and the extra cabling it necessitates can clutter the studio, these are minor grievances compared to its performance boost. Priced at $250, it’s an affordable powerhouse that expands mic versatility, though it falls short in extreme low-volume scenarios. Overall, a must-have for engineers seeking quality and versatility.

positive

Full Review

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